Detox Need Not Be Frightening

Addicts may avoid seeking help because they have a fear of detox and a fear of life without their drug. The body and the mind feel a dependence on the narcotic and imagining what it will feel like to deny themselves the drug can be truly frightening for some. However, detox doesn’t have to be painful or frightening. Keep in mind that First Step® is staffed by people who understand the process better than you do and whose sole purpose is to be there to make detox as painless as possible.

Common Prescription Painkiller Withdrawal Symptoms

People who have been taking drugs like OxyContin, Vicodin, Percocet, Hydrocodone, Fentanyl or Lortab long enough to become physically and emotionally dependent can expect to experience withdrawal symptoms such as:

Low energy

Flu-like symptoms

Tremors or shaking

Anxiety

Achiness

Nausea

Poor appetite

Trouble sleeping

Sweating

Moodiness

Confusion

Headache

These symptoms may become evident soon after the person stops taking the drug(s), usually worsening for several days and then remain somewhat constant for as long as a few weeks. Medical detox treatment centers like First Step® understand just how the process works and stand ready to help patients feel as comfortable as possible throughout and to relieve their fear of detox.

When You Suspect a Loved One May be Addicted to Prescription Painkillers

If you suspect a loved one may be becoming or is already addicted to prescription painkillers, don’t stand by and do nothing. Start keeping watch over how often the person takes the medication. Say something gently remonstrative such as “did you forget that you only needed this three times per day?”

If the person is taking more medication but complains that their pain has only gotten worse, this could be a sign that they are developing a tolerance for the drug and could signal addiction. Don’t be afraid to mention the potential for addiction. And contact First Step®. It is not unloving to show concern over misuse of prescription pain medication. In fact, ignoring the problem is just the opposite.